MOTORCYCLE [OKADA] TRANSPORT AS A VERITABLE MEANS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN BIDA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

In Nigeria, problem of transportation remains complex because low level public transport services and increasing demand for transportation have remained. In this paper, the contribution, operating characteristics and problems of the motorcycle [otherwise called Okada] public transport service in respect of better movement of persons and goods in Bida, Niger state, Nigeria, are examined. Using random selection in the survey, a set of 300 and another 200 questionnaires were administered to selected motorcycle operators the general public, respectively. From the findings, many advantages in favour of motorcycle transport such as better accessibility to destination, door-to-door services, affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability were recorded. Also, in the study, disadvantages of the Okada public movement services such as high accidents rates, human abuse through stress and addictions, were traced. Though, the Okada public transportation service contributes for better transportation service, to attain excellent service delivery, certain regulatory measures and enforcements such as use of crash helmets are recommended.